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Ancelotti backs Casillas

Sections of the Santiago Bernabeu support appeared to be unhappy with Casillas’ role during Saturday’s 2-2 draw against Valencia, where Real needed three goals in the second half to earn a point.

It was the third straight time Madrid had conceded two in a game, following a 3-2 win over Sevilla and the 2-1 defeat to Juventus in the semi-final first leg in Turin.

Casillas had, according to reports in Spain, appeared frustrated with the crowd reaction during the Valencia game but Real boss Carlo Ancelotti is confident his number one will bounce back superbly in what will be his 150th Champions League appearance.

At a press conference for Wednesday’s second leg, the Italian said: “Casillas has a great amount of experience; he’s used to this kind of thing and it doesn’t affect him. In fact, I think it motivates him.

“I’ve said before, sometimes I understand it (jeers) because the players don’t play well. Sometimes you understand it. But I think tomorrow will be different.

“All Madrid fans understand when it’s an important game. Many times in the past they’ve really got behind us, as they did against Atletico (Madrid) and last year in the semi-final they really got behind us, and I’m sure they’ll do so again.”

Watch Real Madrid v Juventus in the Champions League semi-final second leg on Sky Sports 1 and 5 HD from 7pm on Wednesday.